Cool off in a new jersey lake, here's when and where

Cool Off in a New Jersey Lake, Here’s When and Where

TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey State Park Service has released the swimming schedule for various parks and lakes across the state. Swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at lakes and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Island Beach State Park.

The following parks will have swimming available from Wednesday to Sunday:

  • Atsion Recreation Area (Wharton State Forest)
  • Bass River State Forest
  • Belleplain State Forest
  • High Point State Park
  • Round Valley Recreation Area
  • Swartswood State Park

Island Beach State Park will be open for swimming seven days a week.

However, several parks are currently closed for swimming. Cheesequake State Park is closed until further notice, and Hopatcong State Park is closed due to a confirmed Harmful Algal Bloom. Parvin State Park and Wawayanda State Park are also closed until further notice.

Visitors are reminded to adhere to park guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Swimming is only allowed when lifeguards are on duty. During hot weather, park-goers should bring extra water, a hat, and an umbrella for unshaded areas. To protect the environment, visitors are encouraged to take their trash with them and clean up after their pets. Only US Coast Guard-approved lifejackets are permitted in swimming areas.

For the latest updates on the status of parks, forests, historic sites, and recreation areas, please visit the New Jersey Parks and Forests Status page.

Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to enjoy the natural beauty of New Jersey’s parks while following safety and environmental guidelines.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

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